Most of the world’s oil palm trees are grown on a couple of islands in Malaysia and Indonesia – islands with the most biodiverse tropical forests found on Earth. The problem is that palm oil companies are clearing out ancient forests like these, to plant the highly lucrative oil palm trees. They often use slash-and-burn methods, which cause plants to die, and animals to lose their natural habitat. Sustainable palm oil is more expensive to produce, and purchasers of palm oil—from cosmetic manufacturers to food companies—have traditionally been indifferent toward where their palm oil is sourced. But this is changing: in the first two quarters of 2014 demand for sustainable palm oil has shot up 65 percent, totaling 1.1 million metric tons so far this year. Hopefully this foreshadows what the future holds for sustainable palm oil.
Sustainable palm oil sales skyrocket
More of Today's Solutions
Scientists map the mysteries of the brain in more detail than ever before
Google researchers revealed a wonderfully precise map of a portion of the human brain, marking a significant step forward in neuroscience. This astonishing feat, published in ...
Read MoreThe top 5 flower trends blooming in gardens everywhere this year
Springtime brings a burst of color and life to gardens everywhere, and this year is no exception. Trends in flower planting are flourishing, ranging ...
Read MoreWhy hiking is good for your brain
Hiking has gained popularity during the pandemic as a safe way to get outside and stay active. Hiking lets you take in the beauty ...
Read MoreThis is your brain on music
Music does something to humans like no other animal. The rhythm gets inside our bodies and we can’t help but move along with the ...
Read More
